FromtheEditor
Most visitors coming to a new area seek out locals who have lived there for years so they can get an ‘inside’ look at the town from someone who has had plenty of time to explore. That makes a lot of sense.
I’ve realized over time that newcomers to an area can be an equally great guide for longtime residents. That makes less sense but can be just as true.
This is because those surveying new areas with fresh eyes are paying more attention and possibly interested in different things than the long-time locals.
This realization came from reading up on a bizarre 1980’s movie called “True Stories,” which takes place in Texas.
The director was fascinated by Texas music so he went locations scouting with the co-writers who were both former residents of Dallas.
The writers quickly realized that many of the things they tookforgrantedwerecaptivating to the director as he talked about salt and pepper shaker collections and roadside art made from old scrap metal and plastic buckets.
I’ve visited friends and family and checked out spots of interest near their homes that they never visited before (or even knew about) before accompanying me.
Likewise, I’ve spoken to visitors and newcomers who have asked me about signs or activity in plain sight to which I was completely oblivious because I thought I knew that area well.
While taking softball pictures last week I was zooming through the fence when I noticed a ladybug, crawling along the links. I changed my focus from the game long enough to take a picture which became one of my recent favorites.
Occasionally, we’re too farsighted or accustomed to our surroundings to see what’s in front of us.
Try to look at your hometown like a stranger and you might find a new favorite thing. If that doesn’t work, get somebody out of ‘the know’ to show you around. —Paul Gaudette can be reached at publisher@dublincitizen.com.